Testosterone is like a key hormone in your body, especially for guys. It acts a bit like a powerhouse, influencing many things as you grow and develop.

• Other Names: You might not hear other names for testosterone very often, but scientists sometimes call it androgenAndrogen might sound similar to testosterone, and that’s because they’re related! Androgen is like a broader umbrella term, while testosterone is the main star player under that umbrella. • Other Names: You might not hear other names for androgen very often,… Read More (since it’s the main male sex hormone).

What does testosterone do?

• Boys to Men: During puberty, testosterone is one of the main reasons boys develop male physical traits like a deeper voice, facial and body hair, and increased muscle mass.
• Strength and Stamina: Testosterone helps maintain muscle strength and bone density throughout life.
• Sperm Production: It plays a role in sperm production and sex drive in males.
• Overall Health: Testosterone levels can also affect mood, energy levels, and red blood cellRed blood cells (RBCs), a vital component of the complete blood count (CBC), are the life-sustaining workhorses of our circulatory system. Like an intricate network of delivery trucks, these tiny, disc-shaped cells tirelessly transport oxygen from the lungs to every… Read More production.

EtymologyEtymology is the study of the origin and history of words. It’s like detective work, tracing how words have changed over time and moved between languages. Think of it like this: • Words have a long history, just like old… Read More (Word OriginsWhat is an origin? An origin is the starting point, the place or source where something begins. It’s like the very first chapter in the story of that thing. Examples: • The origin of a river: Where the river first… Read More)

• “Testosterone” comes from two parts:
  • “Testes” – the Latin word for testicles, where most testosterone is produced in males.
  • “Sterone” – refers to a group of organicThe word “organic” has two main meanings related to living organisms and the natural world. Here’s a breakdown of its definition, origin, and how it applies to food and health: Etymology and Origin: • Origin: The word “organic” stems from… Read More compounds with a specific structure, like cholesterolCholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body and in the foods you eat. It’s an essential building block for healthy cells, but too much of a bad kind can be a problem. Imagine cholesterol as building blocks;… Read More or other hormonesImagine your body is a giant kingdom with many different jobs to be done. Hormones are like the royal messengers, carrying messages from one part of the body to another to keep everything running smoothly. • Other Names: You might not… Read More.

So, literally, “testosterone” translates to “testicle hormone.”

Important to Note:

• Testosterone is important for males, but females also have small amounts of testosterone.
• Testosterone levels naturally decrease with age for both men and women.

Here are some additional points to remember:

• While testosterone is sometimes called the “male” hormone, it’s present in both sexes, although at much lower levels in females.
• There can be health concerns with both very high and very low testosterone levels.
• If you have questions about testosterone levels, it’s best to talk to a doctor.